A new nature trail is now open to the public near McKean Elementary School. 

Lisa Roberts, a physical education and health teacher at McKean Elementary unveiled the Gerry Aggers McKean PTA Exploration Trail on Thursday after three years of planning and construction. Roberts was instrumental in the creation of the trail. 

The trail is named after Gerry Aggers, a prominent contributor to the project along with the McKean PTA, St. Francis Usher's Club, Erie Community Foundation, and McKean Lions and Lionesses. Most of the trail work was done by Dahlkemper Landscaping. 

There are six areas along the trail for families to explore, including: 

  • The Patricia Davis Off-Road Biking Adventure: A dirt bike course with small hills
  • The Jax Stone Climbing Club: A climbing and balance area with a seesaw and smaller obstacles for children
  • Janelle Guriel Exploration Zone: A sensory/free moving parts area to build and be creative
  • Johnny Smith Music Maze: Two music/sound features with more planned
  • Lesley Little "Little's Island": A science and exploratory area
  • Lee Wasielewski Pumpkin Patch: A second balance/climb area 

All six areas are named after community members or their families who have donated to the school. 

According to Roberts, the McKean PTA and local Eagle Scouts will maintain the trail for the community. 

The nature trail is open from dawn to dusk. Parking is available at McKean Elementary School, located at 5120 West Road in McKean.